Family dog attacks Florida toddler in St. Petersburg

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — A southwest Florida toddler is recovering in the hospital from severe wounds after authorities say he was bitten by the family dog.

St. Petersburg Police say the family was staying at a hotel Friday night when their 11-year-old mixed breed Husky attacked their 18-month old son, severely biting him in the face.

The child is hospitalized in stable condition, but has significant facial wounds. The dog has been place in the custody of Pinellas County Animal Control. The disposition of the dog will be handled by animal control officials.

The family told police the dog is a long time family pet and has never shown any aggressive behavior toward the child before. The family is from Massachusetts, but is staying at a hotel while they purchase a home in Florida.

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